Revamped Sports Governance: Opening Doors for Young Leaders

The Sports Ministry has made a significant amendment to the eligibility criteria for aspiring leaders within national federations, reducing the prerequisite from two terms to one in the Executive Committee. This initiative aims to foster leadership opportunities for younger and more dynamic administrators and athlete-leaders.

Following extensive stakeholder consultations, the National Sports Governance Bill has been passed by Parliament and is pending presidential approval to become law. Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya emphasized that this change ensures a balanced field of candidates, broadening the pool while maintaining necessary experience for effective governance.

The revised policy will allow current Indian Olympic Association President P T Usha and All India Football Federation Chief Kalyan Chaubey to seek re-election. The bill also introduces measures for improved governance, including a National Sports Tribunal for dispute resolution and a Sports Election Panel to oversee elections.

(With inputs from agencies.)